In which of the following reactions has the oxidation number of nitrogen increased?
2NO(g) + Br2(l) → 2NOBr(l)
2NO(g) + O2(g) → 2NO2(g)
FeSO4(aq) + NO(g) → Fe(NO)SO4(s)
2NO(g) + Cl2(g) → 2NOCl(l)
Explanation
Video Explanation
Post your Contribution
Discussions (14)

To determine the change in oxidation number, you need to compare the oxidation states of nitrogen in the reactants and products. Let's analyze each reaction:
A. 2NO(g) + Br2(l) → 2NOBr(l)
Nitrogen goes from +2 in NO to +2 in NOBr. No change.
B. 2NO(g) + O2(g) → 2NO2(g)
Nitrogen goes from +2 in NO to +4 in NO2. Oxidation number has increased.
C. FeSO4(aq) + NO(g) → Fe(NO)SO4(s)
Nitrogen goes from +2 in NO to +2 in Fe(NO)SO4. No change.
D. 2NO(g) + Cl2(g) → 2NOCl(l)
Nitrogen goes from +2 in NO to +3 in NOCl. Oxidation number has increased.
So, the reactions where the oxidation number of nitrogen has increased are B and D.

BUT IF YOU CALCULATE ALL THE OXIDATION STATE FOR NITROGEN IN EACH OF THE COMPOUNDS THIS IS WHAT YOU GET;
OPTION A : +2 TO +3 [INCREASE]
OPTION B : +2 TO +4 [STILL INCREASE]
OPTION C : +2 TO +2 [NO CHANGE AT ALL]
OPTION D : +2 TO +3 [INCREASE]

